Introduction: A Grand Celebration of Yoga Education
The Akhil Bhartiya Yog Shikshak Mahasangh (ABYSMS) program of 2025 unfolded as a remarkable celebration of India’s ancient yoga tradition. On the morning of August 8, dignitaries, yoga teachers, scholars, and enthusiasts from across the country gathered under one roof to pay homage to the art and science of yoga. The venue, decorated with vibrant rangoli patterns, saffron banners, and traditional marigold garlands, resonated with the sounds of conch shells and the chanting of Vedic mantras. This year’s event took on added significance as it welcomed Dr. Shivam Mishra—a respected yoga educator, author, and international representative of Indian yoga culture—as the Chief Guest.
The program was further elevated by the presence of other distinguished figures: Dr. Tanjea, known for her cross-cultural work in yoga therapy; Dr. Sunil Singh, an advocate of integrating yoga into mainstream education; Mangesh Trivedi, the dynamic President and Host of ABYSMS; and celebrated journalist Deepak Chaurasia, whose coverage has brought attention to countless social and cultural causes. Their combined presence added prestige, depth, and a sense of unity to the occasion.
The Arrival and Ceremonial Welcome
Dr. Shivam Mishra’s arrival was met with a ceremonial welcome steeped in Indian tradition. As his car pulled into the venue, a group of young yoga students, clad in white kurtas and saffron sashes, formed an honour guard. The air was filled with the gentle fragrance of sandalwood incense and the rhythmic beats of the nagara drum. Women dressed in colourful saris performed the aarti, circling the sacred flame in front of the Chief Guest, symbolizing the dispelling of darkness and the welcoming of light and wisdom.
A garland of fresh roses and jasmine was placed around Dr. Mishra’s neck by the President, Mangesh Trivedi, who expressed heartfelt gratitude for his presence. “Your life’s work in promoting yoga worldwide is an inspiration to us all,” Trivedi said, his voice carrying both pride and emotion. Beside him stood Dr. Tanjea and Dr. Sunil Singh, offering respectful greetings, while Deepak Chaurasia stood with a notepad in hand, already observing the unfolding scene for his coverage.
The Lighting of the Lamp: A Symbol of Knowledge
The program began with the traditional deep prajwalan—the lighting of the ceremonial lamp—by Dr. Mishra and the other dignitaries. The lamp, placed in the centre of the stage, was decorated with mango leaves and marigold flowers. As each dignitary lit a wick, the hall echoed with the resonant chanting of “Om,” creating a serene and focused atmosphere. This symbolic act underscored the central theme of the program: the spreading of light, knowledge, and holistic well-being through yoga education.
In his brief address after the lighting, Dr. Mishra noted, “A lamp does not lose its flame by lighting another. In the same way, our knowledge grows when we share it. Today, we are not just celebrating yoga—we are reaffirming our duty to pass it on with authenticity and humility.” His words were met with a round of applause that set the tone for the rest of the event.
Keynote Address: Yoga as the Foundation of a Balanced World
Taking the podium, Dr. Shivam Mishra delivered a keynote address that blended historical insight, personal anecdotes, and a forward-looking vision. He began by tracing the roots of yoga from the Indus Valley Civilization to its codification in Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, emphasizing that yoga is not merely a physical practice but a complete way of life. He spoke of his travels across continents, where he has witnessed the transformative power of yoga among people of diverse cultures, religions, and lifestyles.
“The true measure of yoga’s success,” Dr. Mishra declared, “is not in how far one can bend or how long one can hold a pose. It is in how one carries the principles of compassion, balance, and mindfulness into everyday life. This is the yoga that India has given to the world, and this is the yoga we must preserve and pass on.”
He also addressed the dangers of the commercial dilution of yoga, urging educators to uphold authenticity while adapting to modern needs. “We must guard against turning yoga into a mere product. It is, and always will be, a sacred science of self-realization.”
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